DPI, WIAA issue updated Guidelines for Athletics

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Elizabeth Burmaster and Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association Executive Director Douglas Chickering recently released updated guidelines for pupil nondiscrimination in athletics.

The 2006 edition of Pupil Nondiscrimination Guidelines for Athletics is the fifth revision of the document, first published in 1987. It provides guidance and resources to school personnel for designing and operating athletic programs that do not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, or physical, mental, emotional, or learning disability. The new edition of the guidelines was based on a collaborative review of federal and state laws and other guidance, including civil rights statutes, case law, regulations, administrative decisions, and administrative guidance.

“This document will help communities create welcoming and equitable athletics programs, and address both intentional and unintentional discrimination,” Burmaster said. “It is aimed at helping students, coaches, parents, administrators, and others to ensure that all student athletes receive equal opportunities in sports.”

“The document creates a Wisconsin blueprint not only for compliance with pupil nondiscrimination laws, but offers guidelines and recommendations to provide school personnel with the resources they need to fulfill their obligations,” Chickering said. “This publication will be a success if it is accepted in spirit and enacted as a commitment to doing what is right for the students in our charge. The focus should be on creating healthy environments that foster student enjoyment, growth, and success.”

In addition to a legal overview of federal and state pupil nondiscrimination laws and regulations, the publication provides questions and answers with sections for each protected class: sex; pregnancy; race, color, and national origin; religion; disability; and sexual orientation. It offers guidance on other issues that impact athletic programs and provides a list of resources and supporting appendixes, including a sample complaint procedure, student interest surveys, and forms.

“Activity programs, including athletics, are a valuable part of the overall school experience for students,” Burmaster said. “Young people who participate in activity programs tend to have higher grade-point averages, better attendance records, lower dropout rates, and fewer discipline problems than students generally. The nondiscriminatory operation of activity programs can contribute to increased student engagement and success, supporting our efforts to close the achievement gap.”

Last updated on 10/30/2006